Experimental Reality Show Takes Away Clutter From Contestants

  Jill Pollack

We had a conversation the other day with a professional organizing client.

The stuff in our home and office, in our closets, basements, pantries, desktops and garages tells a story of who we are. Sometimes that stuff gets in the way of hopes and dreams (and let's be honest, sometimes it may serve us well). So the question is, "What would happen if your house burned down, or someone magically hauled everything away while we were in dreamland, sleeping safely in your bed?" Interesting conversation indeed. Sometimes we wonder the same thing.

HGTV Canada Filming has begun for HGTV Canada's "Consumed." Designed as "Survivor" for clutter – 13 families will play part in an experiment of less stuff, less clutter for 30 days. They will live with pared down belongings while cameras film their progress of what their lives will be like with less.

HGTV is flying Los Angeles-based Professional Organizer Jill Pollack up to Mainland to oversee the decluttering. Families will receive Pollack's assistance, coaching and leadership during the process. If they "survive" the 30-day clutter-less challenge, the families will get the opportunity to take a cold, hard look at their home and habits and to review the stored-up clutter making final decisions to keep, recycle, donate, or dispose.

Show Host Pollack is a former television producer turned organizing pro. Her consulting clients include Desperate Housewives actresses Marcia Cross and Felicity Huffman, actress and poker champion Jennifer Tilly and the late Brittany Murphy. Pollack has a Bachelors in Psychology from Columbia University and a Masters in Journalism from NYU. Sounds like the perfect person to lead the experiment.

So readers, in the absence of clutter, what opportunities do you see for positive change? We'd love to hear your thoughts below.

Read More:

Langley Advance – Clearing Clutter

Too Much Stuff – TV Casting Call for HGTV's Consumed (pdf flyer)

Sneak Peak of Consumed (video from YouTube)

Related Posts:

David Freeman – A Perfect Mess 12/2006

Nadia Geller – Meet the newest organizer on television (12/2007)

John_trosko_3

Follow us on Twitter!

, , ,

Comments

3 responses to “Experimental Reality Show Takes Away Clutter From Contestants”

  1. Lori Rubin Avatar

    Hi John. I saw a somewhat similar show on BBC America where the possessions were stripped away from an individual. Does this show come from the British show as so many American shows do?

  2. Brianna Avatar

    Some great info here. You have been publishing some interesting posts recently!

  3. Barb Comstock Avatar
    Barb Comstock

    One of the best ideas (especially if you are moving) was from a couple moving into a Tiny House. They suggested only bring those items or furniture into the new home that you actually need, or actually use. I think that is a great way to pare down to the essentials.
    Sounds like this program is trying to do the same thing…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *